By Uzo Ugwunze
The President General, Anambra State Market Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA), Chief Humphrey Anuna (Onwa Oraeri) has inaugurated about 200 stakeholders in various major markets across Anambra State.
Speaking during the inauguration, which took place at the ASMATA Secretariat, Modebe Avenue, Onitsha, Anambra State, Chief Anuna tasked the newly appointed Stakeholders to collaborate with the existing market leaders in their various markets to sanitize the markets of illicit businesses, handle rifts among traders, and and serve as advisers towards the development of Markets.
In attendance include executives of ASMATA, market chairmen and secretaries, ASMATA legal adviser, Barrister Humphrey Udechukwu, among other dignitaries.
Presenting his address titled *“Harvest of Highly Resourceful Men and Women as Critical Stakeholders from All the Markets Across Anambra State,” Anuna emphasized the importance and roles of the newly appointed stakeholders.
The address, read by ASMATA Secretary General, Hon. Macaulay Ekwe, highlighted that the ASMATA leadership, in collaboration with the state executives, had selected resourceful traders from markets across Anambra State to serve as the eyes and ears of the association in their respective markets.
He described the stakeholders as experienced, tested, and trusted individuals, chosen based on their positive track records and contributions to their markets, which have impacted the development of ASMATA.
According to Chief Anuna, their elevation as critical stakeholders was a way to appreciate their efforts and motivate them to continue promoting development, not only in their respective markets but also by supporting government programs and projects in Anambra State.
He pointed out that their main duties would include reporting undesirable elements and illegal activities in their markets to ASMATA’s office.
Chief Anuna, also known as Onwa Ora-Eri, informed the stakeholders that ASMATA might summon them, individually or as a group, alongside their market leaders, to address critical issues concerning the well-being of their markets.
In an interview, Chief Anuna noted that the nominated traders would also serve as ASMATA ambassadors in their respective markets, cautioning them not to challenge their market leaders. He advised them to avoid selfish interests even when faced with challenges. As a gesture, he presented them with wrapper clothes, encouraging them to purchase and use these as the traders’ official uniform.
Commenting on the event, ASMATA legal adviser Barrister Humphrey Udechukwu praised Chief Anuna’s leadership and initiative in coordinating traders, noting his deep knowledge of market leadership. He urged the newly appointed ambassadors to respect their market leaders and cooperate with the ASMATA President General.
Also speaking, the Secretary General of the Main Market Onitsha, Hon. Emeka Boniface Okoli, described Chief Anuna as a man of wisdom and a core APGA member, lauding his efforts in consolidating Anambra traders.
Some market leaders and secretaries who praised Chief Anuna during the event included Chief Samuel Efurunwa, Chairman of Mgbuka Obosi Old Motor Spare Parts; Mr. Everest Ejezie, Chairman of Iron Rod Dealers, Atani Road; Mr. Wisdom Obasi, Secretary of Ogbaru Main Market; and Chidiebere Ibe, Chairman of New Parts, Owerri Road, among others.
Similarly, some of the inaugurated stakeholders who expressed their gratitude included Sunday Ezemuo, Comrade Sam Njoku, Mr. Leonard Ume, and Sunday Nwaofor, among others.